"Chinese Bridge" Helps Foreign Youths Enlarge Circle of Friends

　　The 18th "Chinese Bridge" contestants take a cultural tour in Qufu, Shandong. (Photo/Hunan TV programme team)

　　The 18th "Chinese Bridge" contestants have a study tour in Shanghai. (Photo/Hunan TV programme team)

　　The 18th "Chinese Bridge" top 30 contestants (Photo/Hunan TV programme team)

　　A European contestant gives her partner a high five for her correct answer. (Photo/Hunan TV programme team)

　　The 18th Chinese Bridge Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students is not only an important platform for foreigners to learn Chinese, but also a carrier and testimony for mutual exchanges between Chinese and foreign civilizations," Chief Director Yang Ziyang remarked in an exclusive interview on August 12. Director Yang said that "Chinese Bridge" is making multi-dimensional innovations to promote Chinese culture in a more youthful, interesting and people-friendly manner.

　　This year’s “Chinese Bridge” is themed on “One World, One Family” and highlights the word “friends”. It aims to build a world-class “circle of friends” for young people from all over the world to learn about China and make friends, and serve as a platform for them to share China’s achievements in science and technology, environmental protection, and culture.

　　Now the “Chinese Bridge” has become a cultural bridge for foreign youths to understand China. Through the “bridge”, many contestants have realized their dreams and even changed their destiny.

　　Australian girl Bai Lisha (Chinese name) got the chance to learn vocal music at the Central Conservatory of Music after attending the "Chinese Bridge". Egyptian girl Xin Yue (Chinese name), who participated in the “Chinese Bridge” competition several years ago and now a reporter and hostess of Dubai China Arab TV (CATV), is determined to let the world learn more about China. The 12th "Chinese Bridge” champion Bei Letai has become a Chinese and foreign cultural exchange envoy.

　　The "Chinese Bridge" is attracting an increasing number of Chinese language lovers. Shi Yu (Chinese name) from Egypt has studied Chinese for four years and dreams of becoming a Chinese teacher. She is one of the top 15 contestants at this year competition. “‘Chinese Bridge’ encourages young people from all over the world to learn Chinese language, broaden their horizons, and learn more about China.” In this September, Shi Yu will begin her postgraduate study on international education in Beijing Normal University.

　　Began in 2002, the “Chinese Bridge” has been held for 17 sessions. The 18th edition is co-sponsored by the Confucius Institute Headquarters and the Hunan Provincial People’s Government. A total of 157 college students from 122 countries have participated in this event in Changsha.